[A Case of Malignant Melanoma of the Left Palate]

Malignant melanoma is a rare and highly aggressive neoplasm originating from melanocytes, typically occurring on the skin and exhibiting early lymphatic and hematogenous metastases. Despite advancements in chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy, a definitive standard treatment has yet to be established;surgical excision remains the most effective modality. We present a case of primary malignant melanoma of the left palate. A 64-year-old man was referred to our department with a chief complaint of a black pigmented lesion on the palate. Clinical examination revealed a 20×25 mm exophytic black mass with an irregular margin and induration, extending from the left hard palate to the maxillary gingiva. Based on clinical findings, imaging, and excisional biopsy, the lesion was diagnosed as primary malignant melanoma of the left palate(cT3aN1M0, Stage Ⅲ), and curative surgical resection was performed. The postoperative pathological diagnosis was pT3aN0M0, Stage ⅡA. Immunotherapy with a checkpoint inhibitor was initiated 2 months after surgery. The patient has remained free of recurrence or metastasis for 1 year postoperatively and has demonstrated favorable oral function and clinical outcome.